A Brief History of Liberty

Through a fusion of philosophical, social scientific, and historical methods, A Brief History of Liberty provides a comprehensive, philosophically-informed portrait of the elusive nature of one of our most cherished ideals.

Offers a succinct yet thorough survey of personal freedom

Explores the true meaning of liberty, drawing philosophical lessons about liberty from history

Considers the writings of key historical figures from Socrates and Erasmus to Hobbes, Locke, Marx, and Adam Smith

Combines philosophical rigor with social scientific analysis

Argues that liberty refers to a range of related but specific ideas rather than limiting the concept to one definition